IN 12/2025 RNT COMMUNICATION:
- Introduction
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Information Bulletins (IB)
- Medical Information previously shared in DD Communications
- Training Opportunities
- Survey Opportunities
- Other Resources
- RN Community Spotlight
Introduction to RN Trainer Communication: Welcome!
Hello RN Trainers! Thank you for signing up for the DDD Communications list specifically for RN Trainers.
This communication will be sent in an effort to foster relationship and connection between the RN Trainer community and the Division.
Things you will see in RN Communication may include a summary of DDD Communications from the previous months that pertain to medical services, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, tips, training, and relevant news.
We hope you find the publication a valuable resource in the field. Please provide feedback by completing the survey at the end of the email. To review previously shared RN Communications, click the button below.
View all RN Trainer Communication
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): For Rule 116
Question: Are we allowed to delegate CBD?
Answer:
- Although not FDA approved, CBD gummies/oil/capsules are legal in Illinois and federally and sold as a supplement at various retail/specialty shops. CBD is a chemical found in marijuana. CBD does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychotropic ingredient found in marijuana that produces a "high" feeling. The usual formulation is oil, but CBD is also sold as an extract, a vaporized liquid, gummies and an oil-based capsule.
- It does not require a prescription, but you would need to get a physician order to administer to individual since Rule 116 requires that all medications and supplements (such as vitamins) have physician orders. It would be important for the individual's physician(s) to determine if CBD would affect the metabolism and potency of any of the other medications they are taking.
- CBD should be listed on the MAR like other medications. No additional label should be applied to the bottle that would cover up the original labeling on the bottle.
- It would not be considered a controlled substance.
View Clinical Services Webpage
Information Bulletins (IB): Draft and Final IBs
When policy is being written, prior to being published, the Draft Information Bulletin (Draft IB) is shared for public comments and feedback. Review the current Draft IBs by visiting DDD Draft Information Bulletins and submit comments on open drafts to DHS.DDDComments@illinois.gov.
- This information bulletin provides clarification of timeframe to require a new fingerprint and/or background check prior to employment for a Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) agency.
- Please submit comments by email to DHS.DDDComments@illinois.gov (with the title of the IB in the subject line) by close of business December 31, 2025.
The following Medical IBs are in draft form. Comment period has closed, and drafts are in finalization process.
Upon review of feedback and comments, DDD will work to finalize draft IBs into a final version.
View all Final Information Bulletins
De-Escalation Training: Reimbursement Requirements
All providers are able to seek reimbursement for de-escalation training. DDD hopes to have every qualified agency to sign up for reimbursement.
To seek reimbursement, please follow the instructions included in this IB: IDHS: De-Escalation Training Reimbursement. Please reach out to DHS.ClinicalServices@illinois.gov to seek prior approval.
Current de-scalation training requirements and reimbursements are as follows:
- Train the trainer class with a reimbursement of $2,200 per trainer
- Renewing the trainer with a reimbursement of $800 per trainer
- 8 hours of training for frontline staff with a reimbursement of $275 per staff
- 5 hours of continuing education for renewing/retraining of frontline staff with a reimbursement of $175 per staff
Training Reimbursement forms:
Information Previously Shared in DDD Communication
IL ABLE Accounts: Age Adjustment
- Effective January 1, 2026, the Illinois Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program will expand eligibility criteria. Previously, individuals had to have a disability diagnosed before age 26. Under the new guidelines, individuals with a disability onset before age 46 may qualify. This change broadens access to savings and investment opportunities for more individuals with disabilities.
- For detailed information on eligibility and how to apply, please visit the IL ABLE eligibility page.
- Shared in DDD Communication | October 22, 2025
Reminder for CILA Providers: Working with STAT Services
- The Specialized Telehealth and Assessment Team Service (STAT) Information Bulletin (IB) has been updated. The revised language clarifies billing expectations. When an individual indicates to their ISC that they want to receive the STAT service (bill code 52T) through their personal plan, the CILA provider is notified by DDD with a new rate sheet. The CILA provider is expected to work closely with the STAT provider to ensure the individual receives the service timely. The CILA provider is also expected to deliver all applicable data to the STAT provider for appropriate billing of services. This process functions similar to other billable services like Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Speech and Behavioral Supports. Language has been updated in this IB to reflect the above-noted clarification: Specialty Telehealth and Assessment Team (STAT) Information Bulletin
- Shared in DDD Communication | October 30, 2025
See all DDD Communication
Training Opportunities: Webinars
January 2026
- DDD - "DSP Course Coordinator" is a free virtual training open to established providers. The training is scheduled for 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Central Time on January 07, 2026. This session will offer practical and easy ideas to increase engagement and learning. Come ready to try out some interactive training options! The target audience of this training includes Training Coordinators, Trainers, and Supervisors. Register here: DSP Course Coordinator - WebEx
- ADvancing States, NASDDDS and NAMD - "The Critical Role of Education for Dually-Eligible Individuals" is a free webinar in a 3-part series focused on better serving dually eligible individuals (eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid) in all programs. This session will be presented at 3:00 pm Central Time on January 13, 2026. Register here: Dual Eligibility Zoom
- DDD - "Training Tips for Engagement" is a free virtual training open to established providers. The training is scheduled for 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Central Time on January 14, 2026. This session will offer practical and easy ideas to increase engagement and learning. Come ready to try out some interactive training options! The target audience of this training includes Training Coordinators, Trainers, and Supervisors. Register here: Training Tips - WebEx
- ICPN - "Making it Make Sense: Schizophrenia & the ID/DD Community" is a free virtual webinar hosted January 14, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Central Time. CE certificates provided for specified titles. Learn more and register here: ICPN Webinar Registration - Zoom
- DDD - "Strengthening Documentation" is a free virtual training open to established providers. The training is scheduled for 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Central Time on January 28, 2026. This session will offer documentation tips and frameworks for added detail and consistency. We will explore importation documentation related to the Settings Rule and PCP. The target audience of this training includes QIDP's, DSP's, Trainers, and Supervisors. Register here: Documentation - WebEx
February 2026
- BHWC - "Telehealth for Behavioral Health Providers ECHO" is a free webinar series for primary care providers, administrators, and executives. CE available for each session with verified attendance. Please email Kim Nelson with questions about the training. The next session is February 9, 2026, at 12:00 noon Central Time. Learn more and register here: BHWC - Telehealth Provider Registration
Ongoing
- Epilepsy Foundation Greater Southern IL- Seizure Recognition & First Aid Certification Training provided free of charge. Request a training from Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Southern Illinois Community Education Specialist at (618) 236-2181 ext. 113 or email Will Rieger.
- SIU Medicine - Project ECHO Series "Primary Care Providers Working with IDD Patients" presentations will take place 3rd Thursday of each month from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm Central Time (next presentation 12/18/2025). The series will run from August 2025 until June 2026. Each session will consist of a 15-20-minute didactic presentation, and a case presentation with discussion. To register, visit https://bit.ly/IDDPhysiciansECHO
- 2025-2026 TOPICS: The program will feature topics such as, Recognizing and Managing Psychotropic Side Effects, Approach to Self-Injurious Behavior, Approach Aggressive Behavior, Anxiety Disorders, and much more.
- For more information, or if you have questions, contact Dr. Taylor Blakeley or Kim Nelson.
- Illinois Respite Coalition (IRC) is pleased to offer a comprehensive, self-paced online respite training program. This no-cost training is designed to support individuals who provide temporary relief to primary caregivers of individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or other special needs. It is ideal for both new and experienced respite providers-including family members, volunteers, and direct support professionals. Learn more here: IRC Respite Training Program
See all DDD Provider Training
Survey Opportunities
Aging Individuals with IDD and Aging Caregivers
- If you are an individual with Intellectual or Developmental Disability (IDD) who is aging and wants to access aging services, or if you are an aging caregiver, please consider completing this survey to help the IDHS Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), the Department of Aging (DoA) and the IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) to make it easier for people to access the services they might need from the Disability and Aging Networks.
- Below is the survey in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Polish. If you need additional translations, please email DHS.DDDComments@Illinois.gov.
Bridging Aging and Disabilities
- In partnership with Department on Aging (DoA), Division of Rehabilitation (DRS), IL Council on developmental Disabilities (ICDD), University of IL Chicago (UIC), and the community Statewide Advisory Team (SAT), Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is attempting to gather input on current service options.
- It takes honest and thorough feedback from our stakeholders to fully understand the gaps in connecting individuals with I/DD and aging caregivers with needed services.
- Please complete this brief survey and share your experience, knowledge, and interest in making sure there is no wrong door to connect with aging and I/DD services.
DDD Observance Dates
- November 2025: Family Caregiver Month, Native American History Month, Epilepsy Awareness Month, Down Syndrome Awareness Month
- December 2025: International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Human Rights Day
- January 2026: World Braille Day, International Day of Acceptance
Other Resources
If you know of nurses interested in becoming a RN Nurse Trainer - please share! Learn more here: RN Nurse Trainer Medication Administration in the Community
Contact IDHS Statewide Nursing Coordinator for Questions or Assistance: Anne Fitz or (217) 785-6183
Sign up for RN Trainer Communication
RN Trainer Community Spotlight
Submit a Nomination!
Email the following to DHS.DDDComment@illinois.gov
- I'd like to nominate:
- Agency name:
- Work Location (name only):
- How long they've been in the position:
- What makes them special (share details, stories, etc.):
To be added to our email database or to update your contact information, please Sign up for RN Trainer Communication.
The Division of Developmental Disabilities offers many employment opportunities through the State of Illinois Department of Human Services.
You can view current openings here: Employment with the Division.
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